Trouble

By MJ Stone

Samantha was living her happily ever after, until it was violently taken from her. Now her existence felt like a cruel joke. She wouldn’t exist, if not for Caleb.

Survivor’s guilt doomed her to live a life of distrust and loneliness. The only thing that keeps her going everyday is her son.

Sam’s chance meeting with Ben turns her world upside down. She isn’t looking for love, but Sam’s two sisters aren’t about to let her pass on a date with a handsome athlete like Ben. They push Sam to get involved in a relationship she isn’t ready for.

Two worlds collide when the single mother starts dating a star football player. Secrets and lies threaten to tear them apart. When Sam’s past comes back to haunt her it threatens to take her under.

Warning: Adult language and sexual situations.

• Language: English
• Publisher: MJ Stone
• Release date: Jul 9, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301005925

Book preview

Trouble

A Novel

MJ STONE

Copyright 2013 by MJ Stone

All rights reserved.

Smashwords Edition

This book or any portion thereof

may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever

without the express written permission of the publisher

except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

https://www.facebook.com/mj.stone.73

CONTENTS

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

For my husband.

Without your constant love and support this wouldn’t have been possible. Thank you, You are my everything.

Chapter One

You guys are really going to make me drink this? I complained with a scowl on my face, seeing two bright smiles grinning back at me. Ugh, these bitches were trying to get me drunk.

To sisters and girls nights! Keri held out her shot in toast.

I wanted to roll my eyes, but she was endearing in her own way; so I raised the shot glass and clinked it against my sister’s. I wearily licked the salt from my hand and tilted it back before devouring the lime to try and get the taste out of my mouth. God I hated tequila, but the slow warm sensation down my chest was okay.

We slammed the shot glasses on the table and giggled. This wasn’t so bad. I love you girls, thanks for taking me out, but that’s the last shot I’ll be taking. I coughed a bit and started to feel a buzz. Three beers and a shot in, I felt I should start alternating with water.

Oh, come on, Sam, we don’t get to let loose very often. You should get wasted, Autumn replied. Besides the hotel is right around the corner, so no worries.

If I have my way, I’ll be commandeering the room for a few hours at least. Keri was eying a guy at the bar. Our heads turned to see what she was looking at. He was hot in grey slacks and a white button up. He was well built with a nice smile that he was currently directing at the bartender. Of course, considering this bar I wouldn’t expect any riff raff to be hanging around.

Don’t forget this is a girls night, Autumn whined, you’re not kicking us out of the room while you get busy!

We broke into uncontrollable laughter. Keri would definitely lock us out if she got the opportunity. Keri is my younger sister; she’s been on the prowl since her recent divorce, and since she’s amazingly beautiful, she doesn’t have any problem in the dating department. If you can call it dating. Her sea colored eyes and long-flowing blond hair tended to attract every male she came into contact with.

While Keri is the striking beauty, she is also the only blonde. Autumn and I have dark hair, but Autumn is blessed with the blue eyes. I got screwed in the gene pool with dark brown eyes. I always envied them.

So, Keri, how are your classes going? Are you passing? Oops, I shouldn’t have said it that way. I knew by the look on her face, she didn’t care for the last question. Autumn’s expression showed discomfort too.

I’m passing, thank you very much. I just finished my finals for this quarter and I’m looking forward to a break.

I didn’t mean to imply you wouldn’t be. Sorry. Crap, I needed to be better about not offending her so easily. I never knew what I could say to her, or what was off limits. I usually said the wrong thing and we ended up fighting; but that was because she was a real bitch some times, most of the time.

It’s fine. I only get two weeks off, then I’m back in class. I should have taken the whole summer off. Keri looked back to the bar and our conversation was over. Excuse me, she said politely, but with a devilish gleam in her eye.

Autumn and I stared with awe at her forwardness as she walked right up to the hot guy at the bar. He didn’t seem to mind the company.

I guess we have to keep away from the room for a few hours. I smirked. If she has an opportunity to get laid we should oblige.

Yeah, I guess so, but I don’t like it. Autumn is the oldest and takes her position very seriously; she is the protector. I agreed with her, that I didn’t like Keri’s one-night conquests; but I also knew that Keri was trying to make the best of what she had and right now, that didn’t include a long-term relationship.

I know. I wish she wanted something more solid, but who are we to judge? We’ve all had different paths. I sighed. I didn’t want this to become a pity party, so I gingerly signaled the waitress and ordered us a few beers and some much needed water.

I waved at Keri to bring her back to our table. She nodded and brought her new friend with her, along with four shots of something I didn’t want to drink. Kyle was introduced and I noticed that he had warm caramel colored eyes and sandy brown hair that was cut short. He was more built than I noticed before. In an attempt to avoid taking the shot, I made small talk. What do you do, Kyle?

I’m a personal trainer at the Colorado Club. He smiled; he was definitely attractive.

Oh, nice. No wonder he’s so fit. My sister sure could pick ‘em and the Colorado Club was as exclusive as they got. That’s just around the corner from here, right?

Yep, you should come in sometime. I’d be happy to give you a free session. A sly smile on his face directed toward Keri told me that she would be getting a free session, just not the kind he was talking about.

The waitress arrived with our beer and water. Suddenly aware of the shots on the table, Keri passed them out. Bottoms up!

What is this? I told you no more shots. I didn't want to wake up hung over tomorrow, but it looked like I was fighting a losing battle.

It’s SoCo and you need to live a little. I think Keri lived enough for all three of us.

I rolled my eyes. This is the last one damn it. I grabbed the shot and held it up. To new friends, I said in a smartass tone. Autumn giggled at that one, we both knew how many friends Keri has made.

We downed the shots. It wasn’t great, but it was better than the tequila. Autumn, how’s Jim doing? Is he working this weekend? Her husband is a firefighter and frequently has to stay overnights at the firehouse. I wasn’t sure how she could allow him to work a job like that; I’d be terrified that he wouldn’t come home. It didn’t seem to bother her, or if it did she hid it well.

He’s doing good. He’ll be home tomorrow for three days. Autumn’s smile was warm when she spoke of Jim. They had a solid marriage that would last.

Just as she was about to say something else, we had a new arrival at the table. I didn’t notice at first, but the look on Keri’s face made me very aware. I slowly turned my head to see the most gorgeous man that ever walked the earth. His smoldering eyes drew me in immediately and he was starring right at me. Feeling really uncomfortable, and not sure why, I shifted in my seat. I tried to look away, but it was a challenge. When I finally did turn my head back to our conversation, my sister’s jaws were to the floor.

Hey, Kyle, how are you man? When he spoke, his voice was mesmerizing, so suave and manly. While he greeted his friend I took a second to look again. My God, he was unbelievable. Thick black hair in messy fashion fell over his ears. His eyes were dark with the longest black eye lashes I have ever seen. I slowly glanced down and took in his tall athletic body. This guy was trouble, no doubt about that.

Ben, good to see you! Kyle was obviously ecstatic to see him. As they shook hands we stared. What are you up to?

I was just over at the club and stopped in for a drink. A few of the guys are meeting me here. He returned his gaze to the table and it landed directly on me. Hi, I’m Ben, he said, so smoothly I wanted to melt in my chair.

In an attempt to get ahold of myself so I could speak I cleared my throat. Samantha, nice to meet you. This is Autumn and Keri. They both nodded and stared with their eyes bulging out of their heads. It was silent for what felt like an eternity and it was getting awkward.

Samantha, can I buy you a drink? Ben gestured toward the bar. I almost didn’t understand what he said. All of the sudden I couldn’t hear and the bright smile on his face was blinding me

Oh, uh, no thanks, I just had a shot. Did I just say that? What? Stupid. He tilted his head to the side and his smile turned into a straight line. He looked confused.

Okay, he said in a mildly amused tone. If you change your mind I’ll be at the bar. He flashed a mega smile and turned to say goodbye to Kyle. Good to see you. I’ll catch you at the club tomorrow.

When he walked away all heads snapped to me. What? I felt off.

Did you just turn him down? Do you know who that is? Keri looked dumbfounded.

He did look awfully familiar, but I was so flustered I couldn’t place him. Come on, Keri, you know I’m not here to pick up a guy.

A guy? A guy! That’s Ben Hamilton, wide receiver for the Broncos! Are you crazy? Keri looked like she was about to lash out at me. Kyle chuckled and Autumn looked stunned.

What? Oh my God you’re right, I thought he looked familiar. I looked over to the bar and he was engrossed in conversation with some of his friends. Now that I knew who he was, I recognized a few of them. Several stunning women also surrounded him. Even from a distance I could tell he was charming the panties off of every one of them.

Seriously, Sam? You better get off your ass and go get a drink with him! Keri said in a high-pitched squeal.

Leave her alone, Keri, Autumn said. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything quite like him. If I wasn’t happily married I would be sitting in his lap right now.

I spit out the beer I was trying to swallow and the three of us laughed so hard that Kyle looked uncomfortable. Once it started to subside, I glanced back at the bar and immediately locked eyes with Ben. I quickly turned away.

He’s still looking at you. Autumn wasn’t going to let it go. He’s dreamy, she said with a breathless whisper.

I chuckled. You guys are ridiculous. I tapped Autumn on the shoulder. Let me out, I have to use the bathroom. She scooted out of the booth and I did the same. Keri eyed me and nodded her head toward the bar, obviously hoping that I would go in that direction. I scowled at her and turned the other way to the bathroom.

Once alone, I leaned against the sink and took a few deep breaths. I didn’t understand why I felt so out of sorts. Examining myself in the mirror, I didn’t know what I saw anymore. Who was I? I didn’t know, and I didn’t really care either, which was sad, I thought. I shook my head and went to use the toilet.

Returning to our table, I noticed Keri had a smartass grin on her face. What? I asked.

Nothing, she said. Hey, Kyle, want to get out of here for some fresh air? The look in her eye revealed her true intentions.

Sure, that sounds good. His expression was an equal give away. Damn it.

As they left, I looked at Autumn. I’m sleeping with you tonight, I don’t want to be anywhere near a bed that they’ve broken in. We both laughed.

I looked around at our plush surroundings. Club Eleven. I’m not sure how it got the name, but it was over the top. We were in a booth against the wall and there was a lounge area between the bar and us with deep brown leather furniture strewed about. Black solid wooden tables of different shapes seemed to be haphazardly placed between the leather seating.

The stone walls had arched cubbies that were lit up with small lights and displayed various plants and statues. The dance floor on the other side of the bar was starting to get packed.

Autumn broke the silence. How are you doing? I feel like we haven’t been spending enough time together. I worry about you constantly.

Here we go. I sighed. I’m fine. You don’t have to worry, you have your own family to stress about, don’t add to it with my life.

Yeah, well, I can’t not worry for the people I love, it’s sort of a curse.

I don’t know how to convince you that everything is fine. You never seem to believe me, so I guess you must think something is wrong? I was already getting annoyed.

No, I just know that you’re unhappy. Autumn’s expression was somber. I want to see you like you used to be.

We both knew that wouldn’t happen. Autumn, I’m happy, I have a lot to be thankful for. Have I changed? Probably, but there’s nothing I can do about that. It’s a done deal.

I just want you to live your life.

I am living my life, and the hand I’ve been dealt. You think you would do it differently? I gave her a condescending look. I didn’t want this to turn into a ‘you have no idea how it feels’ conversation, but shit rolls downhill.

No you’re not, you’re going through the motions. You can’t pretend to be happy. At least you can’t pretend with me. Autumn was sympathetic, but that only made me angry.

What do you want from me, Autumn? I can only be myself. If you don’t like it then you don’t need to arrange these outings to spend time with me. Okay maybe I shouldn’t have said that. Sorry if I’m ruining your girls night!

Sam, stop it, you know that’s not what I’m saying. I just want you to be happy.

Happiness is a fleeting thing, so enjoy it while it lasts. I’m going for a smoke. I probably shouldn’t have said that either, but I was so sick of this shit. She let me out of the booth and I grabbed my purse. This conversation always went the same and it made me tense and annoyed. I definitely needed some fresh air.

The air felt good. Spring in Denver brought cool crisp nights and the air was so fresh. Once outside ,I pulled a pack of Winston’s from my purse and lit up. I quit years ago, but I smoked occasionally and felt like I needed one now. I leaned against the brick building, tilted my head back, and closed my eyes. Inhaling in, and breathing out. Clearing my mind.

I wish you wouldn’t do that. A voice pierced my tranquility.

I opened my eyes to see Ben looking down at me. It’s not your concern. I hate people telling me I shouldn’t smoke. I know it’s bad for me, mind your own damn business! I’m buzzed and my sister had pissed me off, I didn’t need this bullshit from a complete stranger.

He looked dejected at that. I guess it’s not, but I still wish you wouldn’t. As I looked at him I felt warmth come over me. What the hell?

I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be rude, it’s just . . . I let out a sigh. Never mind.

Are you okay?

No. Yes, why? I’m not sure what he was doing out here.

I saw you storm out and I wanted to make sure everything was alright. You seem pissed.

No, I’m fine, my sister was just getting on my nerves.

Oh, he paused, family can do that.

Yep. I took another drag of my cigarette and picked at the hem of my shirt. I wasn’t dressed for such an upscale bar, but oh well, too late to do anything about it now. My tight black tee shirt and skinny jeans paired with black pep toe pumps would have to do.

The silence between us grew and I stared off down the street. The sixteenth street mall was teeming with activity. Now that the weather has warmed, people were out and about, shoppers, diners, and bar goers milling around in every direction. I loved to people watch and this was the best place to do it.

I took one last drag, put the cigarette out on the brick and threw it in a nearby trash. When I glanced over to Ben he was watching me intently. Um, thanks for checking on me. I eyed him suspiciously because I didn’t know what he wanted.

No problem. Are you sure there’s nothing I can do for you?

I’m wasn’t sure if he was trying to flirt or was being sincere, but looking into his eyes I didn’t see any double meaning, just concern. Thanks, I’m fine. He walked over to the door and opened it for me. Oh my, his broad shoulders and incredible backside threw me for a loop. The polo shirt was just tight enough to give away what was beneath it and the slacks, shit.

I walked through and thanked him. I headed back to my sister and he headed to the bar.

Immediately Autumn started in on the apologies. I’m sorry, Sam, I didn’t mean to upset you.

It’s okay, Autumn. No big deal. My reply was short enough to make it clear that she should drop it.

So what was that all about?

What? She looked at me like I was intentionally being evasive, and I was. I knew damn well what she was asking. I don’t know really, he followed me to check if I was okay, I guess. I was confused about our encounter; I didn’t know what to say.

Hmm. That’s strange, but nice.

Yes, I suppose it was nice, except I was a total bitch to him. I was regretting this night more and more the longer it went on. We ordered another round and moved on to more acceptable topics of discussion.

A few rounds later, Autumn was happily telling me all about Riley’s little league and his recent school recital. Riley was eight and happened to be my favorite nephew. I could say that because he was also my only nephew. He’s a little shy, but only to people he doesn’t know. Around us he’d never shut up.

The bar door opened and Keri walked in with Kyle following. She looked thoroughly satisfied. I was almost jealous, but I knew I could never do that. I still didn’t know how she could. To each his own, I guess. I should just be thankful that he’d brought her back in one piece and he wasn’t some weirdo.

Have a good time? Autumn asked.

Yes, very good, thank you. One look at Kyle and I could tell they both had a good time. Thanks, Kyle. I promised my sisters a girls night, so I’ll call you? That was a polite brush off for Keri.

Poor guy, he looked like he wanted to hang out. Uh, yeah, okay, sounds good. He gave her a kiss on the cheek and headed over to the bar. We knew Keri wouldn’t be calling him. It’s too bad; he seemed nice.

Glad you made it back, he could have been a serial killer. I looked at Keri with a stern glare.

C’mon, I have better taste than that. And fuck that was seriously hot! Laughing and signaling the waitress she added, I haven’t been screwed that well in awhile! Seriously, he did this thing—

I held up my hand in protest. And I think that’s all I need to know. You better have used protection. Nice, now I sounded like a mother hen. But it was a valid statement, Keri was the wild one and she didn’t need another kid.

Of course I did. I’d be happy to provide you with a few condoms for tall, dark, sex on legs over there. She motioned to the bar and licked her lips. Damn it, I’d hoped this conversation was over.

I’m good, but thanks.

Mind if I take a whirl, then? I looked at her with my mouth gaped open. I didn’t know what to say and the thought of that bothered me. I’m just kidding! I wouldn’t do two guys in one night, that would be slutty.

I couldn’t contain my laughter. Of course that would be slutty, but taking a guy you’ve known for ten minutes to your hotel room was not at all whorish. All three of us got a good laugh out of that. Keri was definitely crass.

Okay guys, one more round then I’m going back to the hotel. It was already past midnight and I was starting to feel it. I can’t party like I once could. And no more shots.

Keri pouted, she obviously wanted to stay out and close the bar down. Oh, come on, I won’t get another night out for God knows how long. I’m not even buzzed anymore.

Well then, get a few shots and slam ‘em. I’m getting tired. If you two want to stay out that’s fine, just walk me back to the hotel. I could use a full six or seven hours sleep.

Keri looked at Autumn and lifted her brow up and down. What do you say? Let’s take her back and then go to that club across the street?

I don’t know; I’m kind of tired too. Autumn had a buzz, but wasn’t wasted at all. She probably knew she would have to babysit Keri. What a good big sister.

Seriously? You two suck. The waitress brought our beers and two shots for Keri. More SoCo, yuck.

Autumn paid the tab and I didn’t fight her too much. It was her damn idea to pay ten dollars a beer at this swanky joint. If I had chosen, we’d be in a dive bar with a jukebox. We grabbed our jackets and purses and headed for the door. I risked a glance toward the bar; he was still there and locked eyes with me instantly. Damn it. I knew I shouldn’t have looked; I’d been doing so well the last few hours. I pulled my eyes away. Time to get on with life.

Chapter Two

The sun streamed in through the thin curtain; why the hell didn’t we close the thicker one? I groaned and rolled over. Autumn was still asleep. What time was it? I raised my head to find the alarm clock and instantly regretted it. Shit. This day was going to suck. Seven o’clock. Maybe I could go back to sleep for another hour? Yeah right.

I sat up and looked over at Keri, she was still fast asleep. She probably would be until noon when we had to check out. I leaned over, put my head in my hands and tried to pull myself from slumber. I hated waking up; I didn’t understand morning people.

I dragged myself out of bed and made my way to the bathroom. I knew I’d feel better after showering and brushing my teeth. When I came out, Autumn was up and her usual chipper self.

Let me shower real quick and we can go downstairs and get some coffee. That sounded like heaven.

Thirty minutes later I was feeling better and thanking God for Starbucks. How are you feeling? Autumn asked.

Okay, but ready to go home, get my chores done, and get ready for the week. If I could get a nap this afternoon that would be nice. That was unlikely.

Yeah, I guess we should wake up sleeping beauty. She’ll only take two hours to get ready. She wasn’t exaggerating.

We packed our overnight bags and headed for home. Well, sort of. I would have to make the hour trek back in my car. When we arrived at our parent’s house the kids were out front playing and doing chalk art.

When I got out of the car Sophie ran at me. Auntie Sam, I missed you! I laughed as I scooped her up in my arms in a big hug, she did just see me yesterday.

I missed you too, my darling! I swirled her around a few times and set her down. She melted my heart. And just like that, she ran off to play. Sophie is Keri’s daughter; they lived here at my parent’s house. With her recent divorce and nursing school, Keri needed help. Luckily my parents were retired and were more than happy to care for Sophie. It’s a good thing too; her ex is a worthless human being. Oops, I’m not supposed to judge; can’t help it in this instance.

Hey, Riley, did you have fun with Grandma and Grandpa?

Yeah, we played video games and watched movies. I forced a hug on him; he wasn’t as affectionate as Sophie which made me smile; being an aunt was an amazing thing.

Just then, the door opened and Caleb stepped out. When he saw me, a huge grin crossed his face. Mommy, Mommy, look what I made with Grandpa! He ran to me and I picked him up, he opened his little hand to reveal the fly inside.

You made that? Wow, it’s awesome! My mind flashed back to my childhood and tying flies with my Dad, it was one of my favorite pass times. I wished I still went fishing; I needed to arrange a family outing to do that.

Hey, Mom. Hey, Dad. Were the kids good?

Yes, of course. They had their normal meltdowns at bedtime, but other than that, it was good. I laughed; I knew exactly what she was talking about.

Okay, Caleb, go get your stuff, we need to get home.

Mom, I want to stay and play! He was getting so good at this poor me routine. At almost five, he had no problem acting like a two year old.

Caleb, we’ll have another sleep over in a few weeks. Grab your bag and tell your cousins, bye. Don’t forget hugs and kisses for Grandma and Grandpa. He sulked, but did as he was asked.

Mom and Dad made small talk, but I knew they would get the scoop about our night out from Keri later, minus her stranger danger hook up. Once Caleb was ready I locked him in his booster seat and headed for home.

We lived just on the outskirts of Denver. Nothing special to note about the town, it is what it is, a place to exist. My home was long gone.

Hey, honey, you doing okay back there? We’re almost home. Looking in the rearview mirror I saw that he was keeping himself busy with a coloring book.

Yeah, Mom, I’m coloring Sponge Bob blue! He laughed to himself and I laughed too. Apparently a blue Sponge Bob was absurd.

When we arrived home to our condo, I started on the weekly chores and Caleb kept himself busy watching cartoons. Three loads of laundry, dishes, toilets and dusting done, it was time to start dinner. Baby, can you please go pick up the toys in your room?

But, Mom, I want to play the Wii. I gave him a stern look and he hopped off the couch to get to work. I was lucky; Caleb is a good kid and didn’t argue with me much.

After dinner and bath time I was exhausted. I knew I shouldn’t have stayed out so late last night. Let’s go to bed, we have to be to church early tomorrow I have Sunday school duty.

Caleb groaned, but he was tired after his sleep over too. As I read to him in his bed I felt at peace. My amazing sweet child was all I could ever ask for. When his eyes flitted closed, I kissed him on the forehead. I love you, baby, sweet dreams.

I went to my room and dragged on my pajamas. I sunk into bed, but even dead tired I couldn’t sleep. As usual, my mind turned over and over. The memories of a past life were always at the forefront. The tears came and like so many nights before, I cried myself to sleep.

***

Barb, how’s it going? Barb was the children’s director at our church. She was so bubbly and always wired. I’d figured out a while ago it was all the Pepsi she drank. She had more energy than the kids did.

Oh, Sam, I’m good. I’m glad you’re here, we have almost forty kids today! How are you doing, hun?

I’m good. I’ll be back after I drop Caleb at his class. She nodded and was swarmed by several kids. They were always clamoring for her attention.

Once we got started, everything flowed into a familiar pace. I found myself gazing off, thinking about God and what we were teaching these kids. Would it make a difference

Reviews for Trouble

[mum26 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Good book, it has a religious theme though, but still very readable. Be warned, very descriptive rape flashbacks and testimony. But by the end he isn't so much like a stalker and she's more open.